The Kia Rio III Hatchback, specifically the UB facelift model produced from 2015 to 2017, represented a significant step forward for Kia in the subcompact hatchback segment. The 1.4-liter (109 horsepower) automatic variant occupied a middle ground within the Rio lineup, offering a balance between affordability, fuel efficiency, and ease of use. Positioned above the base 1.2L engine and below the more powerful 1.6L options, this trim aimed to appeal to buyers prioritizing comfort and convenience over outright performance. The UB facelift brought revised styling, improved interior materials, and updated technology compared to the pre-facelift Rio III, enhancing its overall appeal in a competitive market.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Kia |
| Model | Rio |
| Generation | Rio III Hatchback (UB, facelift 2015) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 (109 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.5 l/100 km (27.7 US mpg, 33.2 UK mpg, 11.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5 l/100 km (47 US mpg, 56.5 UK mpg, 20 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.3 l/100 km (37.3 US mpg, 44.8 UK mpg, 15.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 147 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 13.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 13.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 170 km/h (105.63 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.2 kg/Hp, 98.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.1 kg/Nm, 123.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 109 Hp @ 6300 rpm |
| Torque | 137 Nm @ 4200 rpm (101.05 lb.-ft. @ 4200 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | G4FA |
| Engine displacement | 1396 cm3 (85.19 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 77 mm (3.03 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 74.9 mm (2.95 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.3 l (3.49 US qt | 2.9 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.5 l (5.81 US qt | 4.84 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1109-1187 kg (2444.93 – 2616.89 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1630 kg (3593.53 lbs.) |
| Max load | 443-521 kg (976.65 – 1148.61 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 288 l (10.17 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 923 l (32.6 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 43 l (11.36 US gal | 9.46 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 70 kg (154.32 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 850 kg (1873.93 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 450 kg (992.08 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 50 kg (110.23 lbs.) |
| Length | 4050 mm (159.45 in.) |
| Width | 1720 mm (67.72 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1985 mm (78.15 in.) |
| Height | 1455 mm (57.28 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2570 mm (101.18 in.) |
| Front track | 1507-1520 mm (59.33 – 59.84 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1511-1525 mm (59.49 – 60.04 in.) |
| Front overhang | 810 mm (31.89 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 670 mm (26.38 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.5 m (34.45 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Semi-independent, coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 185/65 R15; 195/55 R16; 205/45 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 5.5J x 15; 6.0J x 16; 6.5J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Rio variant is the Kia G4FA 1.4-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine, part of Kia’s Gamma family, utilizes a multi-point fuel injection system and a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design with four valves per cylinder. The G4FA is a naturally aspirated engine, meaning it doesn’t employ turbocharging or supercharging. This simplicity contributes to its generally good reliability. The engine produces 109 horsepower at 6,300 rpm and 137 Nm (101 lb-ft) of torque at 4,200 rpm. Paired with this engine is a four-speed automatic transmission. While not the most modern transmission in terms of gear count, it was a common choice for this class of vehicle, prioritizing affordability and smooth operation over maximizing fuel economy or performance. The transmission is a conventional hydraulic automatic, known for its relative simplicity and ease of maintenance.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.4L automatic Rio delivers adequate, but not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 12.5 to 13.2 seconds, making it suitable for city driving and highway merging with careful planning. The four-speed automatic transmission, while smooth, lacks the responsiveness of more modern transmissions with more gears. Gear ratios are tuned for fuel efficiency rather than sporty acceleration. Compared to the manual transmission versions of the 1.4L, the automatic sacrifices some responsiveness. The higher-output 1.6L models offer significantly more power and quicker acceleration, but at the cost of increased fuel consumption. The automatic transmission does provide a more relaxed driving experience, particularly in stop-and-go traffic.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.4L automatic Rio typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These generally included air conditioning, power windows and locks, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, and standard safety features like ABS brakes, airbags, and stability control. Higher trim levels offered options such as alloy wheels, a more advanced audio system with touchscreen display, Bluetooth connectivity, and a rearview camera. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for upgraded materials on higher trims. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, prioritizing ease of use over stylistic flair.
Chassis & Braking
The Rio III utilized a front-wheel-drive chassis with an independent McPherson strut suspension in the front and a semi-independent torsion beam suspension in the rear. This setup provided a comfortable ride quality, although it wasn’t particularly sporty. Braking duties were handled by ventilated disc brakes in the front and solid disc brakes in the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations. Steering was rack-and-pinion with electric power assistance, providing light and easy steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Kia Rio III, including the 1.4L automatic variant, was generally well-received by automotive critics as a value-oriented subcompact hatchback. It offered a competitive price point, a decent level of equipment, and Kia’s industry-leading warranty. However, some critics noted the engine’s lack of power and the transmission’s dated design. Compared to rivals like the Honda Fit, Toyota Yaris, and Ford Fiesta, the Rio offered a more spacious interior and a longer warranty, but lacked the same level of driving refinement. Fuel economy was competitive within its class, averaging around 37.3 US mpg in combined driving.
Legacy
The Kia Rio III 1.4L automatic has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle in the used car market. The G4FA engine is known for its durability, and the four-speed automatic transmission, while not cutting-edge, is generally robust. Common maintenance items include routine oil changes, filter replacements, and occasional sensor replacements. These Rios represent a good value for budget-conscious buyers seeking a practical and dependable subcompact hatchback. While not a performance standout, its blend of affordability, fuel efficiency, and reliability has ensured its continued presence on roads today.
